What are the risks of not taking folic acid?

The absence of folic acid increases the possibility of a neural tube defect which are defects in the development of the spinal cord.

• Spina bifida is a condition in which the spinal cord is exposed. If the vertebrae (bones of the spinal column) surrounding the spinal cord do not close properly during the first 28 days after fertilization, the cord or spinal fluid bulge through, usually in the lower back.
• Anencephaly is a condition in which infants die shortly after birth because most of the brain is absent.